Rising Grid-Connection Costs Strain Telecom Operators in Russia and EAEU

Telecommunication giants and tower operators have faced mounting expenses tied to connecting their networks to the electricity grid, a concern raised directly with Maksut Shadayev, the Russian minister overseeing digital development, communications, and mass media. Industry insiders say the upgrade in grid connection costs is now a central issue, with the latest reports indicating that the price to connect a typical household has surged dramatically, approaching 50,000 to 60,000 rubles. This increment was highlighted by RBC, which cited a letter from market participants detailing the new tariff framework and its impact on essential network facilities. The shift signals a broader pressure on network deployment budgets as operators recalibrate capex allocations to sustain service levels in an evolving market environment.